If you’ve been seeing words like Neurodiversity and Neurodivergent and felt like you stepped into a "what the fluff" word salad, don't worry. Here is the unmasked, human-to-human breakdown:

Neurodiversity: The Big Picture

Think of the human race like a massive, global playlist. There are infinite genres, tempos, and rhythms. Neurodiversity is just a fancy way of saying that there is no "correct" song. Every brain has its own unique beat, and the world is better because of that variety.

Neurodivergent: Your Unique Beat

While "Neurotypical" describes the brains that follow the most common "Top 40" rhythm, being Neurodivergent means your brain plays a different genre entirely. This includes:

• ADHD (The "Everything, Everywhere, All at Once" brain)

• Autistic (The "Deep Dive & High-Sensation" brain)

• AuDHD (The wild, beautiful mix of both)

• Giftedness (The "High-Velocity & Complex-Pattern" brain)

• Bipolar (The "High-Voltage & Deep-Current" brain)

• OCD (The "Safety & Pattern-Seeking" brain)

• PDA (The "Pervasive Drive for Autonomy” brain)

• Dyslexic or Dyscalculic (The "Visual & Spatial Storyteller" brain)

• Tourette’s or Tic Disorders (The "Spontaneous & Kinetic" brain)

• Dyspraxia (The "Unique Physical Flow" brain)

• Sensory Processing Differences (The "High-Definition & High-Volume" brain)

• ...and many other beautiful ways of being.

Why is this all over my website? Because for too long, therapy has tried to "remix" your brain to make it sound like everyone else's. I’m not here to "fix" your wiring. I talk about this because I want you to know that your brain isn't a broken version of 'normal'—it’s a masterpiece running a different operating system.

What is Neuro-Affirming Care? In this practice, Neuro-Affirming means I’m not here to teach you how to "mask" or hide your true self to make society comfortable.

• It means we work with your brain’s natural flow, not against it.

• It means eye contact is never a requirement for connection.

• It means if you need to pace while we talk, use a fidget tool, or grab a weighted blanket during a virtual session—I’m here for it.

• We don't focus on "curing" your traits; we focus on finding the tools, the "flow," and the environments where you can actually breathe.

I operate from a single truth: Your brain is a masterpiece, wonderfully made, and the Creator makes no mistakes. If you’ve spent years feeling like a 'glitch,' it’s likely because you’ve been trying to fit a high-speed soul into a low-speed world. Your quirks and your unique patterns aren't things to be fixed; they are the intentional design of a mind meant for greatness. Welcome to a space where we celebrate the masterpiece instead of masking it.

The Official Answer: Yes. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #161292) in the State of California. To earn this title, I completed over 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience and passed rigorous state board exams. I hold a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology and have extensive experience in both high-level clinical settings and private practice.

The "Unmasked" Answer: I’m a big fan of high standards, but I’m an even bigger fan of real results. I use evidence-based frameworks to ensure our sessions aren’t just “talk”they are a structured, proven system designed to help you find your flow.

The "Secret Ingredient": Lived Experience While my degrees matter, I believe life is the ultimate co-therapist. I don’t just sit in a chair and nod; I bring my whole self into the room.

• I Speak "Human": As a Filipino-American navigating multiple worlds, I understand the nuance of culture and the exhaustion of trying to "fit in."

• No "Robot" Vibes: I’ve been in the trenches of life, too. I don't expect a "textbook" client; I want the real, messy, creative version of you.

• Neuro-Nuance: I’ve lived the "unmasking" journey myself. I know that standard advice doesn't work for every brain, so I tailor my approach to fit your reality—not the other way around.

Why this matters for you: You’re getting a therapist who understands that healing isn't a straight line. Sometimes the biggest breakthroughs happen through a laugh, a song, or a long walk by the San Diego coast. I’m here to help you stop performing and start flowing.

Every human is different.

I don’t believe in "cookie-cutter" therapy because your brain doesn’t work exactly like anyone else’s. My approach is person-centered and solution-focused, which just means you are the expert on your life, and I’m here to help you find the "flow" that actually works for you.

Because I have experience working with kids, teens, and families, I know that "sitting and talking" isn't always the best way to heal. That’s why I pull from a large "toolbox" of modalities that work for both the developing brain and the adult mind:

• The "Play & Expression" Tools (Play & Art Therapy): For my younger clients (and the young-at-heart!), I use Play Therapy and Art Therapy. Since play is the natural language of children, we use toys, games, and art to work through big feelings that don't have words yet. It turns "scary" therapy into a space of discovery and safety.

• The "Rewiring" Tools (CPT & CBT): Sometimes, a bad experience from the past gets "stuck" in your brain like a looping video or a "rule" you can't stop following. CPT and CBT help us look at those "stuck" thoughts, figure out why they’re there, and slowly rewire them so they don't have so much power over your day.

• The "Rhythm" Tools (IPSRT & Mindfulness): If your daily routine feels chaotic or your mood swings like a pendulum, IPSRT helps us find a steady "social rhythm" for your life. Combined with Mindfulness, we work on keeping you grounded in the "here and now" instead of drifting into the "what ifs."

• The "Feelings" Tools (DBT & ACT): These help you handle "big" emotions without feeling like you’re drowning. DBT gives you a literal manual for regulating your feelings, while ACT helps you stop fighting your thoughts and start moving toward what actually matters to you.

• The "Body & Soul" Tools (Somatic & Expressive Arts): Sometimes, words aren't enough. We use movement, music, and art to process feelings that are "hidden" in your body—letting you express yourself without the pressure of having to explain it all perfectly.

• The "Specialized" Tools (ERP & Narrative):ERP is a specific way to help your brain realize it's safe when dealing with intrusive thoughts or OCD patterns. Narrative Therapy helps you take back the "pen" and rewrite the story of your life on your own terms.

The "Real Human" Ingredient: Beyond the clinical names, my practice is built on real human connection and a lot of laughter. Whether I’m working with a 6-year-old or a 24-year-old, healing is hard work—but it doesn't have to be stiff or robotic. We’re going to be "real" together, and yes—we will definitely find reasons to laugh along the way.

First, I want to acknowledge your strength. Navigating a crisis and seeking help is an incredible act of self-advocacy. Your safety and stability are my absolute priorities.

Because Unmask & Flow Therapy Co. is a solo, outpatient practice, I provide what is considered "low-level" clinical support. This means I do not have a 24/7 crisis team or the intensive resources required to safely support someone in the immediate aftermath of a high-level mental health crisis.

My Clinical Policy: To ensure you have the robust support you deserve, I have a transition policy for those recently hospitalized:

1. Higher Level of Care: Before starting at this practice, I require that you successfully complete a Higher Level of Care (HLOC) program—such as a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) or an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)—or work with a specialist who provides high-acuity care.

2. The Three-Month Window: Once you have completed your intensive program and have maintained stability for three months, I would be honored to welcome you into my practice.

Why three months? I’m not just a therapist; I’m a human who cares about your long-term success. The first 90 days after a crisis are a delicate time of transition. I want to make sure you are firmly on your feet and have a solid foundation of safety before we begin the deep, "unmasking" work of outpatient therapy.

If you are currently in crisis: Please do not wait. My practice is not monitored 24/7. Please call 911, go to the nearest emergency room, or call/text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for immediate, round-the-clock support.

Unmask & Flow Therapy Co. is a 100% independent practice, which means I am not "in-network" with insurance companies. This allows us to keep your care private, avoid mandatory diagnosis labels, and ensures that you and I (not a corporate adjuster) decide how long your healing journey lasts.

Yes! If you have PPO insurance, I can provide you with a Superbill (a detailed clinical receipt) at the end of each month. You can submit this to your insurance provider for potential out-of-network reimbursement. I recommend calling the number on the back of your card to ask about your "out-of-network mental health benefits."

Below is a script you can use when calling your insurance:

How to Check Your Insurance Benefits (SCRIPT BELOW)

If you have PPO insurance, you may be eligible for out-of-network reimbursement. This means you pay the session fee upfront, and your insurance mails you a check for a portion of that cost.

To find out your specific coverage, call the Member Services or Behavioral Health number on the back of your insurance card and use this guide:

The Opening Script:

"Hi, I am calling to check my out-of-network outpatient mental health benefits. I am planning to see a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who is out-of-network."

The 4 Essential Questions to Ask:

1. "Do I have a deductible for out-of-network mental health services?"

   • Why ask: You may need to pay a certain amount out-of-pocket before your insurance starts sending you reimbursement checks.

2. "What is my ‘co-insurance’ percentage once that deductible is met?"

   • Note: If they say "60%," they will typically mail you a check for 60% of the allowed session cost.

3. "What is the ‘Maximum Allowable Amount’ for CPT code 90837 (Individual Therapy)?"

   • Note: Some companies cap what they think a session should cost. This helps you calculate exactly how much you’ll get back.

4. "How do I submit a ‘Superbill’ for reimbursement?"

   • Note: Most modern companies allow you to simply upload a photo of the Superbill (which I provide monthly) to their app or member portal.

Neuro-Hack: If the phone feels like "too much" today, check your insurance company's website for a Live Chat feature. You can copy and paste these exact questions into the chat box.

I know hitting "submit" can be a lot, so here is the exact 1-2-3 of how I’ll reach out to you:

1. The Initial Call: After you join the list, I will give you a call to set up our free 15-minute consultation.

2. Two Ways to Talk:

   • Option A: If you’re ready and in a good headspace when I call, we can do the 15-minute consultation/screening right then and there.

   • Option B: If I caught you off guard or you’re in the middle of something—no problem. We will just pick a specific day and time to talk later when you're ready.

3. The Timer: Full transparency—my brain loves to talk. To make sure I respect your time (and mine!), I actually bring a timer to our call. This keeps us focused and ensures we hit that 15-minute mark.

4. The "Vibe Check": During this call, I’ll answer your questions and we’ll see if we’re a good fit.

5. The First Session: Setting the Rhythm

   If our phone screening feels like a "yes" for both of us, we’ll get your first official session on the calendar!

   What to expect: Our first video meeting is what’s called a Clinical Intake Assessment. I know that sounds formal, but I promise I don't make it boring!

   Think of this as our "mapping" session. We’ll spend 1 hour looking at your history, your sensory needs, and your goals so I can provide you with the best, most tailored care possible. We aren't just "opening a chart" we are building the foundation for your flow.

   Wait, do I have to do paperwork first? Yes, but I keep it simple. You’ll get a link to your secure client portal (Simple Practice) where you can sign everything digitally before we meet. If the paperwork feels overwhelming, just do what you can, and we’ll finish the rest together during our session!

A Quick Heads-Up for Specific Sessions:

For certain types of therapy, we need to do a Screening first to make sure my approach is the safest and most effective fit for you. We can do this during our first call or schedule a specific time to go over the details.

• Virtual Kids (Ages 6-11): We will conduct a virtual screening to make sure the "home studio" setup is a good fit for your child’s needs and that virtual expressive arts is the right move for them.

• Walk & Talk (Ages 18-24): If you are interested in coastal movement sessions, we will always start with a virtual session first. This allows us to conduct a proper screening, talk through outdoor logistics/safety, and decide together if Walk & Talk is a good fit for you right now, or if virtual therapy is the better place to start.

I believe in high-transparency pricing that honors both the sustainability of this practice and the collective need for accessible, neuroaffirming care.

Please be advised that starting September 1, 2026, my rates will transition to standard professional fees.

I want to be transparent about why this shift is happening. This adjustment is what allows me to sustain a practice that truly honors and empowers everyone navigating the beautiful complexity of neurodivergence. Whether you are an autistic individual, a person thriving with ADHD or OCD, or a parent championing a neurodivergent child, you deserve a therapist who is fully resourced and capable of providing high-quality care.

By moving to standard professional fees, I can ensure the longevity of this practice. It allows me to continue offering the 'real-talk,' low-sensory, and unmasked environment that our community deserves. My goal is to remain a stable, long-term 'Navigator' for every person and family I serve, ensuring that we can move out of survival mode and into a true state of flow together.

A note on the future:

To keep this practice healthy and sustainable in this constantly changing world, please note that rates may be adjusted in the middle of 2027. I believe in clear rules and no surprises, so I’m sharing that now to ensure our 'flow' stays steady and predictable.

How I do Virtual Expressive Arts with Kids & Teens

For kids, the language of healing isn't always sitting and talking… it’s play and rhythm. In our virtual space, I use a "Process-Over-Product" approach. This means we aren't trying to make "fine art." Instead, we are using colors and sounds to move big feelings out of their bodies and into the world.

Our Basic Creative Supply Kit: To help your child feel regulated and ready, I recommend having these "tools" nearby in a quiet, private space:

• Color: Markers, crayons, or colored pencils.

• Surface: A dedicated sketchbook or just plain white paper.

• Rhythm: A simple shaker, a rattle, or even a kitchen whisk and spoon.

• Sound: Access to their favorite music or a device to play a song.

• Comfort: A favorite fidget, stuffed animal, or weighted blanket.

My goal is to meet them exactly where they are, whether they are feeling high-energy or need a quiet space to create.

While both offer a sense of community, they serve very different purposes.

• Support Groups are generally peer-led or volunteer-run. The goal is finding people who have walked a similar path so you feel less alone. They are often "drop-in" style and focus on sharing stories and offering comfort.

• Group Therapy is a formal clinical treatment led by a Licensed Therapist (LMFT). It is structured, goal-oriented, and designed to treat specific mental health symptoms. In my practice, we aren't just sharing our week; we are actively working on a curriculum to change how your brain and body respond to stress.

Why is this technically "Group Therapy"?

Because I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, these sessions are held to a higher clinical standard. We aren't just "talking"—we are engaging in evidence-based interventions.

The goals of our group therapy sessions are specifically designed to help you build a "life worth living" through:

• Emotional Regulation: Learning how to turn down the volume on intense "emotional storms" before they become overwhelming.

• Managing Depression & Anxiety: Using clinical tools to interrupt the cycles of low motivation or the "fight-or-flight" physical response of anxiety.

• DBT Skill Mastery: We lean heavily into Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). You will learn tangible skills in Mindfulness (staying present), Distress Tolerance (getting through a crisis without making it worse), and Interpersonal Effectiveness (learning to set boundaries and ask for what you need).

Why choose Group Therapy over Individual Therapy?

Think of group therapy as a "social laboratory." While individual therapy is great for deep processing, group therapy allows you to practice your new regulation and communication skills in real-time with others. It is one of the fastest ways to "unmask" because you are doing it in a safe, guided space where everyone else is learning to do the same.

Q: Who is the "Best Fit" for this group experience?

A: Our groups are designed for those ready to trade "performance" for presence. You’ll thrive here if:

• You’re tired of the mask: You’re ready to explore what it feels like to be an "unmasked human" in a safe, structured container.

• You value collective wisdom: You understand that while individual work is deep, there is a specific magic that happens when a group "flows" together.

• You crave variety: You’re excited by the idea of switching between expressive arts, movement, and deep process work.

• You respect the rhythm: You appreciate that I lead with a strict routine and structure to ensure the group stays a safe, predictable, and high-value space for everyone.

• You’re okay with "not being okay": You want a space where you don’t have to "fix" your feelings before you walk through the door.

• You have access to a computer, you’re able to have session in a private safe space.

Q: Who might not be a good fit right now?

A: To keep our "Unmask & Flow" ecosystem healthy, this might not be the right space if:

• You’re looking for a "passive" experience: Our groups are active—we move, we create, and we engage. If you prefer to sit back and observe without participating, you might find the energy a bit intense.

• You need total unpredictability: Because I run my practice on structure and routine, our sessions have a specific beat. If you find firm boundaries or structured modalities restrictive, our "Flow" might feel too "Fixed" for you.

• You aren’t ready for vulnerability: While we honor everyone’s pace, these groups are built on the "unmasked" philosophy. If you aren't ready to witness or share authentic human experiences, individual therapy might be a better starting point.

• You’re in an acute crisis: Group therapy is a powerful "calling" and a deep "special interest" of mine, but it isn't a substitute for emergency psychiatric care or intensive stabilization.

Q: Why do you have such a "strict" fit criteria?

A: Honestly? Because this work is my calling and my special interest, and I take the "vibe" of our community seriously. When the right people are in the room, it doesn't feel like work… it feels like a transformation. By being clear about who we are for (and who we aren't), I ensure that every group member feels like they’ve finally found their people. I’m proud to curate a space where everyone can show up and just … be.

Yes. Here is exactly how we handle it:

As a San Diego local, I don’t just pick any random trail. I have scouted specific "Unmask & Flow" spots that prioritize your sensory needs and your privacy. The location I’ve chosen includes:

• Privacy-First Paths: We walk in quiet, low-traffic areas where we aren't "shoulder-to-shoulder" with crowds.

• The Essentials: There is a clean, accessible restroom at our meeting point.

• Safety & Sensory: The trails are flat and safe. We’ll be overlooking the water, using the ocean breeze and the sound of the waves to help your nervous system regulate while we talk.

"What if I see someone I know?" We don't leave this to chance. Before our first walk, we create a Social Safety Plan. You get to decide the "script" in advance:

• The "Friend" Move: If we pass someone you know, we can just keep walking and pretend we are two friends catching up. I will follow your lead.

• The "Pause" Move: We can stop our clinical conversation entirely until the person has passed.

• The "Pivot" Move: We can simply turn around or change direction.

Why choose this? If sitting still feels under-stimulating or "too much," movement can help your brain process information faster. It takes the pressure off of forced eye contact and lets the environment do some of the heavy lifting for your regulation.

Wear comfortable shoes, bring some water, and don’t forget your SPF. I’ll bring the clinical support, the coast will handle the rest.

Movement can be a powerful "unmasking" tool. You might be a great candidate if:

• The "Office Chair" feels like a trap: You find it easier to process deep thoughts when your body is moving rather than sitting still and making eye contact.

• You're an Adult: You are looking for a dynamic way to engage with your mental health while enjoying the San Diego coast.

• Nature is your regulator: You feel more grounded, safe, and "in the flow" when you are near the water or in open air.

• You've completed the Virtual Screening: You have participated in an initial virtual session with me to ensure we have a solid safety and privacy plan in place.

• You have transportation to get to the location.

• You value "Side-by-Side" connection: You prefer the collaborative feeling of walking together toward a goal, rather than the traditional "face-to-face" clinical setup.

I want to be completely transparent: Walk & Talk is not for everyone, and I’m sorry if that’s disappointing. Because your safety and privacy are my absolute priorities, we will likely stick to Virtual Therapy if:

• High Privacy Needs: If the idea of potentially being seen by a stranger or neighbor in public causes you more anxiety than the therapy can help soothe.

• Safety & Crisis Concerns: If you are currently navigating a high-level crisis or specific safety concerns that require the contained, private environment of a virtual or office space.

• Medical or Mobility Constraints: If walking for 45-50 minutes on coastal terrain isn't physically supportive for your body right now.

• Clinical Fit: If, during our screening, we determine that the "home studio" approach is a more effective way for you to externalize your feelings at this stage of your journey.

The Next Step

If you’re unsure, don't worry! We will always start with a Virtual Screening first. We’ll talk about the logistics, see if you qualify, and decide together if the coast or the screen is the best place for you to heal right now.

Yes, please. My practice is neuro-affirming, which means I want you to be comfortable. If you need to pace, use a fidget, look away from the camera, or sit on the floor—do it. Your comfort is more important than "sitting still."

Let’s be real: I’m a solo practitioner, which means I’m the CEO, the therapist, and the person currently staring at this waitlist. Here is the honest breakdown of my response time:

• The Hyperfocus Hustle: When my brain is in "The Zone," I am a fast worker. If I’m hyperfocused, you might hear from me almost immediately (or within 1–3 business days).

• The "Life Happens" Buffer: Sometimes, the "focus" moves elsewhere, or life just gets loud. If it takes me a little longer than 3 days, please don't take it personally—I’m just being a human.

• The 8-Day Safety Net: I will for sure get back to you within 8 days. That is my "no-matter-what" deadline.

The Bottom Line: I'll try my absolute best to reach out fast, but if a full week (plus a day!) goes by and you haven’t heard a peep, check your spam folder or give me a little nudge. I’m excited to connect with you!

I offer a free 15-minute consultation for exactly this reason. It’s a low-pressure way for us to meet, see if our energies click, and for you to ask me any lingering questions before we officially start.

Short answer: Not at all. Think of our first session as a "Vibe Check" with a map. While this is technically an Intake Assessment (where I gather the "logistics" of your history and what’s bringing you in) it is entirely collaborative. There is zero pressure to perform, "mask," or share your whole life story on day one. We move at your speed.

The "You-Led" Rhythm:

• If you want to take it slow: That is 100% okay. We can stick to the basics while you decide if I’m the right human for your journey.

• If you’re ready to "Deep Dive": If you’ve been holding things in and are ready to let it all out, go for it. If you feel comfortable enough to dive deep right away, I am right there with you, ready to listen and hold that space.

The Goal: By the end of our first hour, my hope is that you feel seen, a little bit lighter, and maybe feeling ready to find your flow.

I require 24 hours' notice for cancellations. Because I am a solo practitioner, that time slot is held specifically for you. If you miss a session without notice, there will be a $50 cancellation fee. (But I’m a human—if there’s a true emergency, let's talk).

To ensure I’m providing the most focused and high-quality care possible, my practice is dedicated exclusively to Individual Therapy. While my sessions with kids and teens focus on the young person’s unique needs, I believe support works best when parents are part of the journey. That’s why the Unmask & Flow Bundle includes a "mini" parent therapy component—designed to give you the tools to support your child’s growth at home. While I don't offer full couples or traditional family therapy, I'm always happy to provide referrals to local colleagues if you need those specific services!

Finding the right therapist is like finding the right pair of shoes… it has to fit your walk. If my approach or timeline doesn't feel like the right flow for you, I’ve got you! I'm happy to provide referrals to local colleagues who accept health insurance.

The Short Answer: Yes, 100%.

The Unmasked Answer: I actually really value the rules of my profession—they are the boundaries that keep our work safe and focused. This website is fully HIPAA-compliant, and I’ve ensured that every form and waitlist link uses clinical-grade encryption to protect your privacy.

I don't believe in cutting corners when it comes to security. You can feel confident knowing that your information is being held with the highest level of care and professional integrity.

Simple Practice

To celebrate the launch of my practice and make neuro-affirming care accessible, I am currently offering a Special Founder's Rate of $80 per individual session and $50 per group session. This rate is significantly lower than the average private practice fee in California to ensure as many people as possible can find their flow.

Because I am a solo practitioner in my launch phase, I do not offer additional sliding scale slots at this time. However, as Unmask & Flow grows, I plan to implement a dedicated Equity Slot program. Stay tuned for updates!